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Background: The growth and development of rice (Oryza sativa L.) are affected by multiple factors, such as ROS homeostasis and utilization of iron. Here, we demonstrate that OsUGE2, a gene encoding a UDP-glucose 4-epimerase, controls growth and development by regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and iron (Fe) level in rice. Knockout of this gene resulted in impaired growth, such as dwarf phenotype, weakened root growth and pale yellow leaves. Biochemical analysis showed that loss of function of OsUGE2 significantly altered the proportion and content of UDP-Glucose (UDP-Glc) and UDP-Galactose (UDP-Gal). Cellular observation indicates that the impaired growth may result from decreased cell length. More importantly, RNA-sequencing analysis showed that knockout of OsUGE2 significantly influenced the expression of genes related to oxidoreductase process and iron ion homeostasis. Consistently, the content of ROS and Fe are significantly decreased in OsUGE2 knockout mutant. Furthermore, knockout mutants of OsUGE2 are insensitive to both Fe deficiency and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment, which further confirmed that OsUGE2 control rice growth possibly through Fe and H2O2 signal. Collectively, these results reveal a new pathway that OsUGE2 could affect growth and development via influencing ROS homeostasis and Fe level in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dyes are a class of hazardous chemicals that can cause harm to the environment and life on earth. However, it remains a huge challenge for the effective removal of the dyes. Herein, a new metal-organic capsule {[Cu(L)(bpy)(H2O)]·H2O}n (1) was synthesised by (4,4'-(((1,3,4-thiadiazole-2,5-diyl)bis(sulfanediyl))bis (methylene)) dibenzoic acid, 2,2'-bipyridine and CuCl2∙2 H2O under solvothermal condition. Interestingly, two inversion asymmetric units are connected by O-H···O and O-H···N to form a centrosymmetric capsule with cavity. The intermolecular interactions were further quantitatively analysed and visualised by the CrystalExplorer 17.5. Notably, complex 1 can effectively adsorb methylene blue (MB), and the adsorption performance is linearly correlated with MB concentration. When the concentration of MB was increased from 10 to 50 mg∙L−1, the adsorption performance of 1 was increased from 17.68 to 66.79 mg∙g−1, while reduced the MB removal efficiency from 88.4% to 66.4%. The adsorption process is suitable for the pseudo-second-order and the Langmuir model. Furthermore, complex 1 showed the good recyclability and stability for at least five runs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inulin is a typical kind of fermentable polysaccharide and has emerged as a promising dietary supplement due to its multiple health-promoting effects. This study aimed to unveil the dynamic change pattern of inulin utilizability as a fermentation substrate during gut microbiota development and illuminate its potential association with gut microbiota in Chinese Jinhua native pig models via longitudinal analyses. Herein, fresh feces were collected at one week pre- and post-weaning as well as 3rd month post-weaning, respectively. Targeted metabolomics and in vitro simulated fermentation revealed increasing concentrations of fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and elevating utilizability of inulin as a fermentation substrate. Microbiomic analyses demonstrated the conspicuous longitudinal alteration in gut microbial composition and a significant rise in microbial community diversity during gut microbiota development. Furthermore, gut microbial functional analyses showed a remarkable increase in the relative abundances of carbohydrate metabolism pathways, including pentose phosphate pathway, galactose metabolism pathway, butanoate metabolism pathway as well as fructose and mannose metabolism pathway. Notably, relative abundances of bacterial genera Bifidobacterium , Roseburia , Faecalibacterium and Enterococcus displayed significantly positive correlations with the production of microbial fermentation-derived SCFAs. Collectively, these findings offer novel insights into understanding inulin utilizability variations from the perspective of gut microbiota development. [Display omitted] • Longitudinal observations demonstrate increasing concentrations of swine fecal SCFA. • In vitro fermentation assay reveals escalating utilizability of inulin as a substrate. • Microbiomic analyses show a longitudinal increase in swine gut microbial diversity. • Functional analyses show increasing abilities of microbial utilizing carbohydrates. • Dynamics of inulin utilizability correlate with longitudinal microbiota alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the regulatory mechanism of bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) gene in the testes of Tibetan sheep and its role in the blood–testis barrier (BTB). First, we cloned BMP4 gene for bioinformatics analysis, and detected the mRNA and protein expression levels of BMP4 in the testes of Tibetan sheep pre-puberty (3-mo-old), during sexual maturity (1-yr-old), and in adulthood (3-yr-old) by qRT-PCR and Western blot. In addition, the subcellular localization of BMP4 was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. Next, BMP4 overexpression and silencing vectors were constructed and transfected into primary Sertoli cells (SCs) to promote and inhibit the proliferation of BMP4, respectively. Then, CCK-8 was used to detect the proliferation effect of SCs. The expression of BMP4 and downstream genes, pathway receptors, tight junction-related proteins, and cell proliferation and apoptosis-related genes in SCs were studied using qRT-PCR and Western blot. The results revealed that the relative expression of BMP4 mRNA and protein in testicular tissues of 1Y group and 3Y group was dramatically higher than that of 3M group (P < 0.01), and BMP4 protein is mainly located in SCs and Leydig cells at different development stages. The CDS region of the Tibetan sheep BMP4 gene was 1,229 bp. CCK-8 results demonstrated that the proliferation rate of BMP4 was significantly increased in the overexpression group (pc-DNA-3.1(+)-BMP4; P < 0.05). In addition, the mRNA and protein expressions of SMAD5 , BMPR1A , and BMPR1B and tight junction-related proteins Claudin11, Occludin , and ZO1 were significantly increased (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression of cell proliferation-related gene Bcl2 was significantly enhanced (P < 0.05), and the expression of GDNF was enhanced (P > 0.05). The mRNA expression of apoptosis-related genes Caspase3 and Bax decreased significantly (P < 0.05), while the mRNA expression of cell cycle-related genes CyclinA2 and CDK2 increased significantly (P < 0.05). It is worth noting that the opposite results were observed after transfection with si-BMP4. In summary, what should be clear from the results reported here is that BMP4 affects testicular development by regulating the Sertoli cells and BTB, thereby modulating the spermatogenesis of Tibetan sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The separation and removal of stevioside from natural product steviol glycosides to obtain high‐purity rebaudioside A is of great significance for the application of steviol glycosides in food, medicine, and other fields. Here, in order to explore the adsorbent pore structure suitable for the separation of stevioside and rebaudioside A, a hierarchically porous amino‐functionalized metal–organic framework (HP‐NH2‐MIL‐53) with an appropriate and narrow pore size distribution was prepared using a modulator‐induced defect‐formation strategy. The results showed that the hierarchically porous structure with micropores and mesopores increased the specific surface area and exposed amino groups compared with original metal organic framework (NH2‐MIL‐53), and the maximum adsorption capacity of HP‐NH2‐MIL‐53 for stevioside and rebaudioside A was 233.89 mg/g. The narrow pore size distribution close to 3.80 nm promoted the screening effect, resulting in a maximum adsorption selectivity of 4.13. This work proves that when the pore size of the adsorbent is between 1.41 and 3.80 nm, it has a certain pore size screening effect on stevioside and rebaudioside A, and the hierarchically porous metal‐organic frameworks provide a pre‐design idea of adsorbent structure for the separation of natural products with molecular weight of 800–1000 Da. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil salinity poses a substantial threat to agricultural productivity, resulting in far-reaching consequences. Green-synthesized lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) have emerged as significant biopolymers which effectively promote sustainable crop production and enhance abiotic stress tolerance. However, the defensive role and underlying mechanisms of LNPs against salt stress in Zea mays remain unexplored. The present study aims to elucidate two aspects: firstly, the synthesis of lignin nanoparticles from alkali lignin, which were characterized using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Fourier Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX). The results confirmed the purity and morphology of LNPs. Secondly, the utilization of LNPs (200 mg/L) in nano priming to alleviate the adverse effects of NaCl (150 mM) on Zea mays seedlings. LNPs significantly reduced the accumulation of Na+ (17/21%) and MDA levels (21/28%) in shoots/roots while increased lignin absorption (30/31%), resulting in improved photosynthetic performance and plant growth. Moreover, LNPs substantially improved plant biomass, antioxidant enzymatic activities and upregulated the expression of salt-tolerant genes (ZmNHX3 (1.52 & 2.81 FC) , CBL (2.83 & 3.28 FC) , ZmHKT1 (2.09 & 4.87 FC) and MAPK1 (3.50 & 2.39 FC) in both shoot and root tissues. Additionally, SEM and TEM observations of plant tissues confirmed the pivotal role of LNPs in mitigating NaCl-induced stress by reducing damages to guard cells, stomata and ultra-cellular structures. Overall, our findings highlight the efficacy of LNPs as a practical and cost-effective approach to alleviate NaCl-induced stress in Zea mays plants. These results offer a sustainable agri-environmental strategy for mitigating salt toxicity and enhancing crop production in saline environments. [Display omitted] • Green synthesized lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) effectively mitigate the NaCl toxicity in maize. • LNPs significantly reduce Na + and Cl− concentrations and enhance lignin accumulation in maize shoots and roots. • Seed priming with LNPs promotes biomass, antioxidant enzyme activity and relative gene expression. • Confocal microscopy, SEM and TEM confirm the protective role of LNPs against NaCl stress in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of high-efficiency thermoelectric materials is extremely important for energy harvesting. In this study, novel MWCNTs/Ag2Se (MCAS) composites were successfully fabricated via a typical one-pot hydrothermal method and their thermoelectric properties were discussed in the temperature range from 300–420 K. SEM images revealed that the microparticle diameter of Ag2Se in MCAS was about 10 times smaller than that of pure Ag2Se, which contributed to close contact and a synergistic effect at the MCAS interface. Thermoelectric measurements indicated that 1%MCAS obtained the optimal thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) value, and this was ascribed to the outstanding electrical conductivity of the MWCNTs and the lowered thermal conductivity of 1%MCAS. The electrical conductivity of 1%MCAS was 3.0 times higher than that of Ag2Se, and the lattice thermal conductivity decreased by 55.3% at 300 K. This study provides a new strategy for designing Ag2Se-based thermoelectric materials and promoting thermoelectric performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poly (ethylene glycol dimethacrylate‐co‐vinylphenylboronic acid) P(EGDMA‐co‐VPBA) adsorbents are prepared via reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) precipitation polymerization with 4‐vinylphenylboronic acid (VPBA) as the functional monomer, and used for selective adsorption of steviol glycosides (SGs). The boron content and pore structure of the P(EGDMA‐co‐VPBA) adsorbent are adjusted by changing the polymerization conditions. The adsorption results show that the pore structure of the P(EGDMA‐co‐VPBA) affects the adsorption capacity to SGs, the presence of boric acid functional groups shows favorable adsorption selectivity for stevioside (STV), and the adsorption selectivity is proportional to the content of boric acid in P(EGDMA‐co‐VPBA) adsorbents. The adsorption performance of P(EGDMA‐co‐VPBA) toward SGs is the best when the ratio of monomer to cross‐linker is 1:50 and the solvent is acetonitrile. In the SG solution (6.0 mg mL−1, CSTV/CRA = 1:1), the adsorption capacities and adsorption selectivity (αSTV/RA) of P(EGDMA‐co‐VPBA) to SGs are 113.20 mg g–1 and 4.99, respectively. The adsorption kinetics and isotherm data obey pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm model, respectively. The boric acid copolymers with VPBA as the monomer prepared by the one‐step method can become a promising material for efficient separation and purification of SGs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress are deemed the prime causes of brain injury after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Since the silent mating-type information regulation 2 homologue 3 (Sirt3) pathway plays an imperative role in protecting against neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, it has been verified as a target to treat ischemia stroke. Therefore, we attempted to seek novel Sirt3 agonist and explore its underlying mechanism for stroke treatment both in vivo and in vitro. Results: Trilobatin (TLB) not only dramatically suppressed neuroinflammation and oxidative stress injury after middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats, but also effectively mitigated oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation injury in primary cultured astrocytes. These beneficial effects, along with the reduced proinflammatory cytokines via suppressing Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling pathway, lessened oxidative injury via activating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathways, in keeping with the findings in vivo. Intriguingly, the TLB-mediated neuroprotection on cerebral I/R injury was modulated by reciprocity between TLR4-mediated neuroinflammatory responses and Nrf2 antioxidant responses as evidenced by molecular docking and silencing TLR4 and Nrf2, respectively. Most importantly, TLB not only directly bonded to Sirt3 but also increased Sirt3 expression and activity, indicating that Sirt3 might be a promising therapeutic target of TLB. Innovation: TLB is a naturally occurring Sirt3 agonist with potent neuroprotective effects via regulation of TLR4/nuclear factor-kappa B and Nrf2/Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap-1) signaling pathways both in vivo and in vitro. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that TLB protects against cerebral I/R-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative injury through the regulation of neuroinflammatory and oxidative responses via TLR4, Nrf2, and Sirt3, suggesting that TLB might be a promising Sirt3 agonist against ischemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With ever increasing share of renewable energy sources in the electricity mix, pulverized coal-fired power plants (PCPP) have to participate in peak load regulations frequently and thus, they regularly operate under partial loads. The energy efficiency and eco-efficiency are both significantly affected by such operating patterns. Therefore, the present work aims to establish an overall concept for the estimation of environmental impacts from PCPP under nominal and partial loads with combined thermodynamic analysis and life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. A 1000 MW supercritical PCPP was modeled using commercial simulation software (GSE for thermodynamic simulation and SimaPro for LCA analysis). Results indicated that global warming was the predominant environmental impact of PCPP, while ozone formation, acidification and eutrophication were also serious concerns attributed to NO x emissions in electricity generation process. The mechanisms of formation, migration and removal of different kinds of pollutant emissions significantly influenced the LCA results. Particularly, the total environmental impact potential considerably increased by approximately 90% under partial/low loads due to reductions in the plant thermal efficiency and NO x removal efficiency. A novel partial load No.0 feedwater preheating system driven by steam ejector was thus proposed for NO x reduction improvement. Operation optimization was carried out based on the guidelines of the LCA framework. It was found that the total environmental impact could be effectively reduced by up to 27.3%. Therefore, the implementation of the No.0 feedwater pre-heater was favorable for environmental performance improvement under partial/low loads. • A framework of combined LCA-thermodynamic modeling of PCPP was developed. • Distribution of environmental impacts of PCPP under partial loads was demonstrated. • Environmental impact of PCPP under low loads considerably increased. • Partial load No.0 feedwater preheater driven by steam ejector was proposed. • Low load environmental impact was reduced by increasing feedwater temperature rise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A brush-like Ni/carbon nanofibers/carbon nanotubes (Ni-CNFs-CNTs) multi-layer conductive network was designed to work as a freestanding anode in lithium ion batteries (LIBs). The carbon nanotubes (CNTs) arrays were grown vertically on the surface of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with the active Ni bound on the other end of the CNTs. The intimate connection between CNFs and CNTs offers multiple transport routes for electron and ion, and the brush-like structure with gaps and super specific surface area is conducive to shorten Li+ ion diffusion pathways and buffer volume expansion during the Li+ insertion/extraction process. An outstanding cycling stability (480.82 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 100 mA g−1 and 260.88 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 1000 mA g−1) and an excellent rate capacity (262.06 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1) were achieved as a freestanding anode in LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A polysaccharide-doxorubicin conjugation and its PLGA nanoparticles were first prepared. • CS-Dox-PLGA exhibited a significant inhibitory effect on tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. • CS-Dox-PLGA could inhibit tumor growth via regulating CD44 receptor and EPR effect. Abstract The purpose of this study was to ascertain the effect of chondroitin sulphate-modified doxorubicin (Dox) nanoparticles on enhancing the tumour-targeting effect and tumour growth inhibition effect of doxorubicin both in vitro and in vivo. The chondroitin sulphate-doxorubicin conjugate and its poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (CS-Dox-PLGA) were successfully synthesised, and then characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), proton magnetic resonance (1HNMR), thermogravimetric analysis/differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC), transmission electron microscope (TEM), zeta potential and laser light scattering. Taking advantage of the enhanced permeability and CD44-mediated endocytosis, CS-Dox-PLGA showed excellent capacity for penetrating the peripheral tumour barrier and into the nucleus of tumour cells. The CS-Dox-PLGA cellular uptake was improved and exhibited a significantly higher level of cytotoxicity in U251 cells. After intravenous administration, the CS-Dox-PLGA showed good pharmacokinetic properties and excellent U251-induced tumour inhibition with low cardiac toxicity. Therefore, CS-Dox-PLGA with low cardiac toxicity and good anti-tumour ability might be a better choice for Dox in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Noble-metal-free electrocatalysts are highly desired for the sustainable H 2 production via water electrolysis. Herein, we report on heterostructured MoC-MoP nanoparticles supported by bacterial cellulose-derived N-doped carbon nanofibers (denoted as MoC-MoP/BCNC NFs) as cost-efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). As evidenced, the presence of MoC can prevent MoP from coarsening due to the strong interfacial interactions, resulting in ultrafine nanoparticles evenly integrated with conducting N-doped carbon matrix. More importantly, such heterostructured MoC-MoP delivers tailored electronic configurations toward the optimal binding with intermediate H, accomplishing the promoted HER kinetics. Thereby, the MoC-MoP/BCNC NFs exhibit higher HER activity and faster kinetic metrics in comparison with the single-component counterparts (e.g., MoC/BCNC and MoP/BCNC). They afford low overpotentials of 158 and 137 mV to achieve a current density of −10 mV cm−2 and small Tafel slopes of 58 and 65 mV dec−1 in 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 and 1.0 M KOH, respectively. Elucidating efficient electrocatalysis on the MoC-MoP interfaces, this work will open up new opportunities for exploring cost-efficient electrocatalysts in sustainable energy conversion. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Strong interactions between MoC and MoP lead to ultrafine MoC-MoP hetero-nanoparticles. • MoC-MoP interfaces exhibit optimized electronic configuration toward intrinsically promoted HER kinetics. • The MoC-MoP/BCNC NFs accomplish prominent HER in both acidic and basic electrolytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • CNTs can be vertically and uniformly grown on the surface of CNFs via PECVD. • The CNFs-CNTs exhibit a superior specific surface area of 398.127 m2 g-1. • CNFs-CNTs films show 98% Cr(VI) removal with an adsorption capacity of 234.957 mg g-1. Abstract A novel strategy of growing carbon nanotubes (CNTs) vertically and uniformly on the surface of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) via plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) was proposed to prepare a kind of CNFs-CNTs adsorption materials. The CNFs-CNTs (398.127 m2 g−1) obtained a 33 times increased specific surface area as compared to CNFs (12.986 m2 g−1). CNFs-CNTs showed remarkable adsorption capacity toward Cr(VI) in water (150 mg g−1 after an hour adsorption and 227 mg g−1 at equilibrium) due to the fascinating surface area. The effects of operating conditions including pH value, absorbing time, amounts of the adsorbents and initial concentration on Cr(VI) removal properties are evaluated. Besides, the nanocomposites exhibited excellent recyclability for adsorbing Cr(VI) that as slightly as ∼5% adsorption capacity was reduced after 3 adsorption cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chugging is observed in subsonic and supersonic steam–air jet condensation in water. • The mechanism of chugging is revealed by a quantitative study on phase interface behavior. • Chugging can lead to low-frequency and high amplitude pressure pulse. • The correlation of dominant frequency of chugging-led pressure pulse is given. Chugging, a typical unstable flow pattern caused by steam-water direct contact condensation, should be paid more attention in engineering applications due to its accompanying low-frequency and high amplitude pressure pulse. In this paper, it was experimentally found that both subsonic and supersonic steam–air jet condensation could trigger chugging in a confined channel. As for such conditions, the chugging-caused pressure pulses all had two dominant frequencies with different amplitudes, and the one with larger amplitude was mainly distributed in the low-frequency zone of 15–45 Hz and 30–50 Hz. The brilliant image of steam-water phase interface captured by a high-speed camera showed that the mechanism of chugging was the sharp and low-frequency stretching and shrinking of the phase interface because of the periodic aggregation and dissipation of air layer. The subsonic steam–air jet condensation could trigger chugging only with a small amount of air, which therefore should be prevented as far as possible in engineering. However, for supersonic steam–air jet condensation, chugging could be triggered as soon as the air mass fraction reached a critical value because the incoming flow had severely damage effect on the air layer. By considering the steam mass flux, condensation driven potential, water Reynolds number and air mass fraction, the correlations of dominant frequency of chugging for subsonic and supersonic steam–air jet condensation were given, with deviations in the range of ± 20% and 15%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Root hairs are required for water and nutrient acquisition in plants. Here, we report a novel mechanism that OsUGE1 is negatively controlled by OsGRF6 to regulate root hair elongation in rice. Root hairs are tubular outgrowths generated by the root epidermal cells. They effectively enlarge the soil-root contact area and play essential roles for nutrient and water absorption. Here, in this study, we demonstrated that the Oryza sativa UDP-glucose 4-epimerase 1-like (OsUGE1) negatively regulated root hair elongation and was directly targeted by Oryza sativa growth regulating factor 6 (OsGRF6). Knockout mutants of OsUGE1 using CRISPR-Cas9 technology showed longer root hairs than those of wild type. In contrast, overexpression lines of OsUGE1 displayed shorter root hair compared with those of wild type. GUS staining showed that it could specifically express in root hair. Subcellular localization analysis indicates that OsUGE1 is located in endoplasmic reticulum, nucleus and plasma membrane. More importantly, ChIP-qPCR, Yeast-one-hybrid and BiFC experiments revealed that OsGRF6 could bind to the promoter of OsUGE1. Furthermore, knockout mutants of OsGRF6 showed shorter root hair than those of wild type, and OsGRF6 dominantly expressed in root. In addition, the expression level of OsUGE1 is significantly downregulated in Osgrf6 mutant. Taken together, our study reveals a novel pathway that OsUGE1 is negatively controlled by OsGRF6 to regulate root hair elongation in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible protein (GADD34/Ppp1r15a) is induced by various stimuli including DNA damage and ER stress. DNA damage and oncogene activation, accompanied by tumor-specific DNA repair defects and a failure to stall the cell cycle, are early markers of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, whether GADD34 accounts for regulating HCC tumorigenesis remains elusive. Here, we demonstrated that GADD34 expression was upregulated in the liver of mice after exposure to a carcinogen, diethylnitrosamine (DEN). In both acute and chronic DEN treatment models, GADD34 deficiency not only decreased oncogene expression, but also reduced hepatic damage. Moreover, loss of GADD34 attenuated immune cell infiltration, pro-inflammatory cytokine expression and hepatic compensatory proliferation. Finally, GADD34-deficient mice showed impaired hepatocarcinogenesis. Thus, the process of DEN-induced HCC proceeded as follows. First, DEN treatment induced DNA damage in hepatocytes, resulting in elevated expression of GADD34 in the liver. The increased expression of GADD34 augmented hepatic necrosis followed by elevated expression of interleukin (IL)-1β and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1. This process promoted immune cell infiltration and Kupffer cell/macrophage activation followed by production of reactive oxygen species and pro-tumorigenic cytokines such as IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. The pro-tumorigenic cytokines stimulated compensatory proliferation of surviving and mutant hepatocytes. Together with oncogene c- Myc expression, these processes led to HCC. Our results suggest therapeutic opportunities for HCC by targeting GADD34-related pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A strain-transformable microstructure was successfully designed in a metastable β Ti–7Mo–3Nb–3Cr–3Al alloy with enhanced mechanical properties, by introducing ∼28% α precipitates coupled with the TRIP effect, overcoming the traditional trade-off dilemma between strength and ductility in most metastable β-Ti alloys. The as-designed lamellar microstructure was predominantly deformed by stress-induced martensitic (SIM α") phase transformations, martensitic twinning and dislocation slip of the parent β grains and α laths. The β→α" transformation followed the [113] β //[112] α" //[-310] α" //[1-21] α" orientation relationship, with the {133} β habit plane predicted by the Phenomenological Theory of Martensite Crystallography (PTMC). A novel <211> α" type II martensitic twinning mode was also found, in addition to the {111} α" type I mode at SIM α"/α impinging region. The results show that, not only the lamellar α precipitates play a major role in precipitation strengthening, but they can also effectively block SIM α" propagation at the initial stages of deformation. However, SIM α" transmission across the α laths was also observed for large strains. Moreover, < c + a > pyramidal slip and shear of the α laths also contributed to the accommodation of internal stresses. Therefore, the origin of the enhanced tensile mechanical properties can be attributed to the combined effects of α precipitation strengthening coupled with the TRIP softening effect and the extra interaction stresses introduced by the α laths and other deformation products, validating the design concept. The current investigation may provide a novel strategy for designing new high-performance metastable β-Ti alloys. • A strain-transformable microstructure was successfully designed in a metastable β-Ti alloy. • The designed microstructure is deformed by stress-induced martensitic (SIM α") phase transformation and dislocation slip. • The β→α" transformation follows [113] β //[112] α" //[-310] α" //[1-21] α" orientation relationship and {133} β habit plane. • A novel <211> α" type II twinning mode has been observed at SIM α"/α impinging region for the first time. • The α precipitates could deform compatibly with the SIM α". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] We examined the inhibitory effects of silver-nps against HeLa cells. [•] The viability of HeLa cells infected with silver-nps treated Ad3 was increased. [•] Ad3-infected cells treated by silver-nps do not show obvious CPE and fluorescence. [•] Silver-nps directly damage the structure of Ad3 was confirmed by TEM. [•] DNA loads from silver-nps treated Ad3 was decreased in a dose-dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Undesired ice accumulation can lead to serious negative impacts on daily life and equipment safety. Slippery liquid-infused surfaces (SLISs) have been widely studied for their low ice adhesion strength (τ ice ). However, the lack of durability, weak robustness, and complex preparation process hinder the application of SLISs. In this work, robust oil-infused porous surface (RIPS) was obtained by a facile one-step method, which used epoxy resin (E44) as a substrate and contained fumed silica and silicone oil. The RIPS-6 displays outstanding anti-icing/deicing ability, superior liquid repellency, good self-cleaning performance, and excellent mechanical robustness. At −5 °C, the water droplet remained unfrozen after 7200 s. τ ice was only 6.9 kPa at −20 °C and remained below 15 kPa during 10 icing cycles. Furthermore, the mixture of E44 and fumed silica enhanced the mechanical properties including the hardness (4 H) and abrasion resistance of RIPS-6. The icephobicity can be remained (τice < 40 kPa) even after 150 cycles of sandpaper abrasion at 2.5 kPa. The anti-icing and deicing coating with excellent mechanical stability and durability significantly improves the practical application possibility of the coating in harsh environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bimodal microstructure of a metastable β Ti–7Mo–3Nb–3Cr–3Al (Ti-7333) alloy was successfully tuned through various thermomechanical processing steps, to achieve strength and ductility combinations, in the range between 903 and 1443 MPa and 2.9 % and 17 %, respectively. The influence of the microstructural variables on the deformation micro-mechanisms and fracture mechanisms were further elucidated by the assistance of TEM and fractographic analysis. The results indicate that the strength of bimodal Ti-7333 is mainly governed by secondary α S precipitation through the introduction of a high density of α/β interfaces that effectively block dislocation transmission, whereas ductility is tuned through the control of the primary α P , rod-like α r and retained β phases. Moreover, ductility can be extremely deteriorated if the formation of a continuous grain boundary α CGB phase is not prevented. Plastic deformation of bimodal Ti-7333 is dominated by dislocation slip and tangling, whereas the microstructural sensitivity that accelerated at high strength level is originated from the deformation incompatibility between the fine acicular α S and parent β. In addition, the {10–11}<-1012> α micro-twinning of equiaxed α P phases also contributes to improved ductility and coordinates deformation to an extent. The fractographic analysis revealed either fracture by microvoid coalescence or a mixture of intergranular fracture and microvoid coalescence, depending on thermomechanical condition. The mixed fracture mode results in a relatively flat crack propagation path and reduced ductility; whereas a tortuous crack propagation is obtained when the alloy solely undergoes fracture by microvoid coalescence. • The microstructures, deformation micro-mechanisms and fracture mechanisms, are correlated in a metastable β-Ti alloy. • The huge variation in mechanical properties results from the interplay between different deformation mechanisms. • The bimodal microstructural sensitivity is originated from the deformation incompatibility between α S and β grains. • The formation of continuous grain boundary α (α CGB) is extremely detrimental to ductility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycolysis in Sertoli cells (SCs) can provide energy substrates for the development of spermatogenic cells. Triose phosphate isomerase 1 (TPI1) is one of the key catalytic enzymes involved in glycolysis. However, the biological function of TPI1 in SCs and its role in glycolytic metabolic pathways are poorly understood. On the basis of a previous research, we isolated primary SCs from Tibetan sheep, and overexpressed TPI1 gene to determine its effect on the proliferation, glycolysis, and apoptosis of SCs. Secondly, we investigated the relationship between TPI1 and miR-1285-3p, and whether miR-1285-3p regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of SCs, and participates in glycolysis by targeting TPI1. Results showed that overexpression of TPI1 increased the proliferation rate and decreased apoptosis of SCs. In addition, overexpression of TPI1 altered glycolysis and metabolism signaling pathways and significantly increased amount of the final product lactic acid. Further analysis showed that miR-1285-3p inhibited TPI1 by directly targeting its 3'untranslated region. Overexpression of miR-1285-3p suppressed the proliferation of SCs, and this effect was partially reversed by restoration of TPI1 expression. In summary, this study shows that the miR-1285-3p/TPI1 axis regulates glycolysis in SCs. These findings add to our understanding on the regulation of spermatogenesis in sheep and other mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The NaNbO3 photocatalysts were prepared under air, H2/Ar and O2 atmosphere by a solid state reaction. These samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, UV–vis spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity of NaNbO3 samples were evaluated from the hydrogen evolution from an aqueous methanol solution. The hydrogen evolution rate of NaNbO3 under air, H2/Ar and O2 atmosphere showed an increasing trend in turn. Moreover, the hydrogen evolution rate exhibited a linear increase with the surface oxygen defects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The compressive deformation behaviors were investigated in metastable β Ti–7Mo–3Al–3Cr–3Nb alloy single crystal micropillars oriented to [011] β and [001] β. The study demonstrates that the metastable β titanium single crystal oriented to [001] β exhibits nonlinear elastic behavior with hysteresis, which is attributed to reverse β to α″ transformation. Furthermore, the yield strength of the single crystal oriented to [011] β is almost twice as of the single crystal oriented to [001] β , which is influenced by the different roles of ω ath in both pillars due to differences in shear modulus G, in addition to being determined by the deformation mechanism at yielding. The continuous impedance to dislocation motion of ω and α″ phase in the pillar oriented to [011] β leads to a stable plastic flow behavior, but reverse β to ω phase transformation facilitating the formation of massive SIMα″ results in a sudden strain burst in the pillar oriented to [001] β. Finally, we find that the pillar oriented to [011] β is dominated by dislocation slip but SIMα″ occupies a dominant position in the pillar oriented to [001] β in the early deformation stage, which is same as predicted based on the martensitic transformation theory in metastable β titanium alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the role of aluminium (Al) in marine environment and the corrosion mechanism of galvalume coatings by conducting accelerated experiments and data analysis. Design/methodology/approach: Samples were subjected to accelerated corrosion for 136 days via salt spray tests to simulate the natural conditions of marine environment and consequently accelerate the experiments. Subsequently, the samples were examined using various test methods, such as EDS, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and the obtained data were analysed. Findings: Galvalume coatings comprised interdigitated zinc (Zn)-rich and dendritic Al-rich phases. Corrosion was observed to begin with a Zn-rich phase. The primary components of the corrosion product film were Al2O3 and Zn5(OH)8Cl2·H2O. It was confirmed that the role of Al was to form a dense protective film, thereby successfully blocking the entry of corrosive media and protecting the iron substrate. Originality/value: This study provides a clearer understanding of the corrosion mechanism and kinetics of galvalume coatings in a simulated marine environment. In addition, the role of Al, which is rarely mentioned in the literature, was investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stress-induced martensitic (SIM) β→α″ phase transformation and SIM α″ twinning in the fully-β Ti–7Mo–3Nb–3Cr–3Al (Ti-7333) alloy was investigated as a function of strain, following a surface-to-bulk methodology assisted by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), focused ion beam (FIB) milling and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results indicate that the Ti-7333 alloy is predominantly deformed by SIM and SIM α″ twinning. At the onset of deformation, the lattice correspondent SIM α″ martensite variant that produces the maximum transformation strain along the tensile direction is activated firstly, which follows the <-110> β //<001> α″ orientation relationship. As the strain increases, the SIM α″ laths deform by twinning, predominantly through the {130}<310> α″ compound twinning and {111} α″ type Ⅰ twinning modes. Their activation can be rationalized in terms of the magnitude of the shear and the complexity of the atomic shuffle using the Bilby-Crocker deformation twinning theory. The prevalence of {130}<310> α″ compound twinning in this alloy is attributed to the comparatively small shear (0.1872) and the simple shuffle (q = 2, Δ Ⅰa = 0.3257) mechanism involved. During the last stages of deformation, secondary microtwinning takes place within the primary twins due to the reduced mobility of the intervariant boundaries. The evolution of such hierarchical microstructure with strain accounts for the complex microstructural features that developed with deformation, responsible for the high work hardening displayed by this alloy. • Metastable β-Ti alloy deforms by stress-induced martensitic phase transformation (SIM α″) and SIM twinning. • The α″ variant producing the maximum transformation strain along tensile direction was preferentially activated. • The origin of the {130}<310> α″ compound twinning was rationalized. • The prevalence of this peculiar twinning mode in metastable β-Ti alloys was first explained comprehensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, a hybrid technique, called the Iteration transform method, has been implemented to solve the fractional-order coupled Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) equation. In this method, the Elzaki transform and New Iteration method are combined. The iteration transform method solutions are obtained in series form to analyze the analytical results of fractional-order coupled Korteweg-de Vries equations. To understand the analytical procedure of Iteration transform method, some numerical problems are presented for the analytical result of fractional-order coupled Korteweg-de Vries equations. It is also demonstrated that the current technique's solutions are in good agreement with the exact results. The numerical solutions show that only a few terms are sufficient for obtaining an approximate result, which is efficient, accurate, and reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Preparation methods and structural features of AAPs were summarized. • Diverse biological activities and potential mechanisms of AAPs were outlined. • Structure-activity relationships of AAPs and their derivatives were discussed. • AAPs exhibit promising prospects of pharmacological application. • Further studies are required to facilitate a better understanding of AAPs. Auricularia auricula is a well-known traditional edible fungus with high nutritional and pharmacological values. Polysaccharides are identified as one of the pivotal bioactive constituents of natural extracts of A. auricula. Accumulating evidence has revealed that polysaccharides from A. auricula (AAPs) exhibit diverse biological functions. Hence, a systematic review of research advances and future prospects of AAPs is very necessary for facilitating their better understanding. In this review, we have summarized current knowledge about extraction and purification methods, structural features, biological activities and potential molecular mechanisms of AAPs. Besides, the proposed structure-activity relationships of AAPs have also been highlighted and discussed. This review may provide some valuable insights for further researches regarding AAPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Metastable β-Ti alloys deform by stress-induced martensitic (SIM) transformations. • Upon stress relief, {1 3 0}〈3 1 0〉 α ″ martensite compound twins transform back into {3 3 2}〈1 1 3〉 β twins. • The results explain the origin of this controversial twinning mode in bcc metals. This paper presents in-situ observations of the reversion-martensitic-phase-transformation induced {3 3 2} 〈1 1 3〉 β twinning process. Our observations in a β-quenched Ti-7Mo-3Nb-3Cr-3Al alloy demonstrate that, instead of {3 3 2} 〈1 1 3〉 β twinning, stress-induced-α″ martensitic-phase-transformation takes place during deformation. However, once the α″ deformation bands are lifted-out from the bulk matrix through focused-ion-beam milling and the stresses are relieved, those deformation bands consisting of {1 3 0} 〈3 1 0〉 α″ compound-twins reversely transform back into {3 3 2} 〈1 1 3〉 β twins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gut microbiota plays important roles in host nutrition, metabolism and immunity, and is affected by multiple factors. However, the understandings of the gut microbiota in pigs within different breeds, growth periods and genders from a large cohort remain largely undefined. In the present study, the characteristics of the gut microbiota in 120 pigs of different breeds, growth periods and genders were investigated using the Illumina MiSeq PE300 combined with QIIME2 platform. A total of 7 388 636 raw reads and 16 411 features were obtained. Additionally, the microbial diversity, compositions and phenotypes were described. 66.53% microbiota belonged to the top 10 most abundant genera (pan gut bacteria), and 28 species were commonly identified (core gut bacteria, commonality ≥ 75%) among the pigs. Besides, the correlations within pan and core gut microbiota were firstly investigated. The metagenomic function was predicted by using PICRUSt2. Furthermore, the explanatory effects of the influencing factors suggested that growth period was the greatest contributor to the gut microbiota in pigs. These results expanded our knowledge of mammalian gut microbiota within different influencing factors and microbial‐related biological features in swine, which contributes to improving animal production and assisting animal model research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• N2 Plasma is introduced to surface engineer MoP electrocatalysts. • Electronic modulation due to N-doping obviously promotes alkaline HER. • The facilitated OH* desorption accounts for fast water dissociation and thereby HER. Surface engineering boosts electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), and more importantly serves as a key platform to uncover catalytic mechanism. Herein, we use plasma treatment under N 2 or Ar to engineer MoP for alkaline HER. Beyond the reduced particle size (in both Ar and N 2 cases), the N 2 plasma treatment further results in N-doping into MoP, which enriches Mo-P active species and causes electron localization near doped sites. Accordingly, water dissociation is promoted thanks to the facilitated OH* desorption, leading to remarkable improvement in alkaline HER. The optimal N-doped MoP accomplishes high performance in 1.0 M KOH, with a low η 10 (overpotential at a current density of -10 mA cm geo −2) of 70 mV and a low Tafel slope of 55 mV dec-1, which is superior to most of Pt-free counterparts. Providing atomic-level insight into the structure-activity relationship on engineered surface, this work will open up new opportunities for electrocatalyst design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to unveil potential protective mechanisms of SEPS-4, a novel sulfated derivative of exopolysaccharide produced by Enterobacter cloacae Z0206, against H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative damage in murine macrophages based on proteomic approaches. SEPS-4 pre-treatment was found to be capable of alleviating H 2 O 2 -induced reduction of RAW264.7 cell viability. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry were used to evaluate proteins with significant expression alterations in H 2 O 2 -challenged RAW264.7 cells following pre-incubation with SEPS-4. Here 12 up-regulated proteins and 12 down-regulated proteins were successfully identified. Bio-informatic analysis was applied for further mechanistic studies. GO annotation and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses demonstrated that differentially expressed proteins were mainly clustered in stress-related biological processes, including metabolic process, stimulus to response, cell growth and death. Peroxiredoxin-2 and Eef1g were core modules of protein-protein interaction network. Collectively, our data indicated that SEPS-4 may exert protective effects against H 2 O 2 -induced oxidative damage via the regulation of these functional proteins and related biological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transforming macrophages into the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype could markedly strengthen inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment, which is considered as a promising strategy. However, the high ferroptosis sensitivity of M2 macrophages, which decreases their activity, is a major stumbling block to this strategy. Therefore, promoting M2 polarization while simultaneously inhibiting ferroptosis to tackle this challenge is indispensable. Herein, a calcium‑carbonate (CaCO 3) mineralized liposome encapsulating a ferroptosis inhibitor (Fer-1) was developed (CaCO 3 @Lipo@Fer-1, CLF). The CaCO 3 mineralized coating shields the liposomes to prevent the release of Fer-1 in circulation, while releasing Ca2+ in the acidic-inflammatory environment. This released Ca2+ promotes M2 polarization through the CaSR/AKT/β-catenin pathway. The subsequently released Fer-1 effectively upregulates GSH and GPX4, scavenges reactive oxygen species, and inhibits ferroptosis in M2 macrophages. In vivo, CLF improved the targeting efficiency of IBD lesions (about 4.17-fold) through the epithelial enhanced permeability and retention (eEPR) effect and enhanced IBD therapy by increasing the M2/M1 macrophage ratio and inhibiting ferroptosis. We demonstrate that the synergistic regulation of macrophage polarization and ferroptosis sensitivity by this mineralized nanoinhibitor is a viable strategy for IBD therapy. Schematic diagram of the preparation of CaCO 3 @Lipo@Fer-1 (CLF) mineralized-liposome and therapeutic mechanisms in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). (A) Preparation of CLF mineralized liposome. (B) CLF treats IBD by regulating macrophage polarization and inhibiting ferroptosis. (C) Mechanism of CLF promoting polarization and inhibiting ferroptosis of M2 macrophages. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steroid metabolism is a fundament to testicular development and function. The cytochrome P450, family 11, subfamily A, polypeptide 1 (CYP11A1) is a key rate-limiting enzyme for catalyzing the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone. However, despite its importance, what expression and roles of CYP11A1 possesses and how it regulates the testicular development and spermatogenesis in Tibetan sheep remains largely unknown. Based on this, we evaluated the expression and localization patterns of CYP11A1 in testes and epididymides of Tibetan sheep at three developmental stages (three-month-old, pre-puberty; one-year-old, sexual maturity and three-year-old, adult) by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), western blot and immunofluorescence. The results showed that CYP11A1 mRNA and protein were expressed in testes and epididymides throughout the development stages and obviously more intense in one- and three-year-old groups than three-month-old group (except for the caput epididymidis). Immunofluorescence assay showed that the CYP11A1 protein was mainly located in Leydig cells and epididymal epithelial cells. In addition, positive signals of CYP11A1 protein were observed in germ cells, epididymal connective tissue and sperms stored in the epididymal lumen. Collectively, these results suggested that the CYP11A1 gene might be mainly involved in regulating spermatogenesis and androgen synthesis in developmental Tibetan sheep testis and epididymis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pickled mustard tuber (PMT), also known as Brassica juncea var. tumida, is a conical tuberous vegetable with a scaly upper part and a coarse fiber skin covering the lower part. Due to its highly distorted and complex heterogeneous fiber network structure, traditional manual labor is still used for peeling and removing fibers from pickled mustard tuber, as there is currently no effective, fully automated method or equipment available. In this study, we designed an underactuated humanoid pickled mustard tuber peeling robot based on variable configuration constraints that emulate the human "insert-clamp-tear" process via probabilistic statistical design. Based on actual pickled mustard tuber morphological cluster analysis and statistical features, we constructed three different types of pickled mustard tuber peeling tool spectral profiles and analyzed the modular mechanical properties of three different tool configurations to optimize the variable configuration constraint effect and improve the robot's end effector trajectory. Finally, an ADAMS virtual prototype model of the pickled mustard tuber peeling robot was established, and simulation analysis of the "insert-clamp-tear" process was performed based on the three pickled mustard tuber statistical classification selection. The results showed that the pickled mustard tuber peeling robot had a meat loss rate of no more than 15% for each corresponding category of pickled mustard tuber, a theoretical peeling rate of up to 15 pieces per minute, and an average residual rate of only about 2% for old fibers. Based on reasonable meat loss, the efficiency of peeling was greatly improved, which laid the theoretical foundation for fully automated pickled mustard tuber peeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While high-aspect-ratio metal nanowires are essential for producing nanowire-based electrodes of good performance used in electronics and electrocatalysis, the synthesis of millimeter-long Cu nanowires remains a challenge. This work demonstrates an oleylamine-mediated hydrothermal method for synthesis of Cu nanowires with an average diameter of ~80 nm and a length up to several millimeters. An investigation on the role of oleylamine in nanowire formation by mass spectroscopy, small angle X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy reveals that oleylamine serves as a mild reducing agent for slow reduction of Cu(II) to Cu, a complexing agent to form Cu(II)-oleylamine complex for guiding the nanowire growth, as well as a surfactant to generate lamellar phase structure for the formation of nanowire bundles. The growth mechanism of these millimeter-long Cu nanowire bundles is proposed based on the experimental observations. Electrochemical measurements by linear sweep voltammetry indicate that the self-supported nanowire electrode prepared from as-formed Cu nanowire bundles shows high catalytic activity for electroreduction of nitrate in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Growth, propagation, merging and detachment of interface wave was observed. • Interface wave was proved to grow exponentially in axial direction. • Pressure oscillation of supersonic steam jet condensation was induced by interface wave. • A correlation for dominant frequency was proposed based on interface wave propagation. Pressure pulse is a potential risk during the application of condensing supersonic vapor jet in various industrial areas, particularly in a confined space, such as a pipe system. However, the source of pressure pulse remains unknown. In this work, experimental study on the dynamics of condensing supersonic steam jet in a rectangular channel was performed. Interface dynamics were captured by high-speed photography and quantitatively studied via an image-processing technique. The pressure pulse characteristics inside the channel were investigated using dynamic pressure transducers. Results proved that pressure pulse was caused by the growth, propagation, and detachment of interface wave induced by Kelvin-Helmholtz instability for the first time. In addition, the interface wave was proved to grow exponentially by experimental and theoretical methods. The dominant frequency was negative related, whereas its amplitude was positive related to the interface penetration length, which could be explained well by the growth, propagation, and detachment of interface wave. Finally, a prediction model for the dominant frequency was proposed on the basis of the propagation characteristics of interface wave. The proposed model could predict the dominant frequency at a maximum deviation of ±30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ti-5Al-7.5V alloy shows attractive tensile and high cycle fatigue strengths. • Crack initiation occurred at facets matching basal planes with high Schmid factor and occasionally occurred in hard grains badly oriented for < a > type slips. • α p grain pair bounded by (0001) or near (0001) twist grain boundary was a kind of high cycle fatigue sensitive microstructure configuration. • Intense slip bands were absence in faceted grain and fatigued α p grains. • The role of the silicide on fatigue crack initiation still needs further detailed studies. Fatigue crack initiation mechanism at high cycle regime in a bimodal Ti-5Al-7.5V alloy are investigated by fracture observations, focused-ion-beam cross-section and electron back-scattered diffraction characterizations. The aged Ti-5Al-7.5V exhibits superior tensile and fatigue properties, alongside a wide range of fatigue life when tested at the stress levels of ∼ 700–800 MPa. Fatigue failure was dominated by surface and subsurface crack initiation at facets matching basal planes. These faceted primary α (α p) grains generally have a medium or high Schmid factor (SF) for basal < a > slip. Moreover, a basal faceting process also occurred in the "hard" grains, in which the c-axis of the HCP-α grains was approximately parallel to the loading axis so that the < a > type slips were thought to be suppressed. The observed internal microcracks were formed along the grain boundaries located in clusters of α p grains, especially along (0001) twist boundaries. Furthermore, transmission electron microscope observations evidenced the absence of intense slip bands within faceted grain and fatigued α p grains, which indicates that the facet growth should not along the pre-existing slip bands resulting from high cycle fatigue loadings. The pre-existing structural defects including dislocation networks and subgrain boundaries within α p grains are relatively stable configurations under fatigue loadings. The observed fine (∼500 nm in diameter) silicides were widely dispersed, whether the silicide can act as the crack nucleation site still needs further more detailed studies and this remains an open question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: COVID-19 infection continues all over the world, causing serious physical and psychological impacts to patients. Patients with COVID-19 infection suffer from various negative emotional experiences such as anxiety, depression, mania, and alienation, which seriously affect their normal life and is detrimental to the prognosis. Our study is aimed to investigate the effect of psychological capital on alienation among patients with COVID-19 and the mediating role of social support in this relationship. Methods: The data were collected in China by the convenient sampling. A sample of 259 COVID-19 patients completed the psychological capital, social support and social alienation scale and the structural equation model was adopted to verify the research hypotheses. Results: Psychological capital was significantly and negatively related to the COVID-19 patients' social alienation (p <.01). And social support partially mediated the correlation between psychological capital and patients' social alienation (p <.01). Conclusion: Psychological capital is critical to predicting COVID-19 patients' social alienation. Social support plays an intermediary role and explains how psychological capital alleviates the sense of social alienation among patients with COVID-19 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The fear of hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with hypoglycemia has seriously affected their quality of life. They are always afraid of hypoglycemia and often take excessive action to avoid it. Yet, researchers have investigated the relationship between hypoglycemia worries and excessive avoiding hypoglycemia behavior using total scores on self-report measures. However, network analysis studies of hypoglycemia worries and excessive avoiding hypoglycemia behavior in T2DM patients with hypoglycemia are lacking. Purpose: The present study investigated the network structure of hypoglycemia worries and avoiding hypoglycemia behavior in T2DM patients with hypoglycemia and aimed to identify bridge items to help them correctly treat hypoglycemia and properly deal with hypoglycemia fear. Methods: A total of 283 T2DM patients with hypoglycemia were enrolled in our study. Hypoglycemia worries and avoiding hypoglycemia behavior were evaluated with the Hypoglycemia Fear Scale. Network analyses were used for the statistical analysis. Results: B9 "Had to stay at home for fear of hypoglycemia" and W12 "I am worried that hypoglycemia will affect my judgment" have the highest expected influences in the present network. In the community of hypoglycemia worries, W17 "I worry about hypoglycemia during sleep" has the highest bridge expected influence. And in the community of avoiding hypoglycemia behavior, B9 "Had to stay at home for fear of hypoglycemia" has the highest bridge expected influence. Conclusion: Complex patterns of associations existed in the relationship between hypoglycemia worries and avoiding hypoglycemia behavior in T2DM patients with hypoglycemia. From the perspective of network analysis, B9 "Had to stay at home for fear of hypoglycemia" and W12 "I am worried that hypoglycemia will affect my judgment" have the highest expected influence, indicating their highest importance in the network. W17 "I worry about hypoglycemia during sleep" aspect of hypoglycemia worries and B9 "Had to stay at home for fear of hypoglycemia" aspect of avoiding hypoglycemia behavior have the highest bridge expected influence, indicating they have the strongest connections with each community. These results have important implications for clinical practice, which provided potential targets for interventions to reduce hypoglycemia fear and improve the quality of life in T2DM patients with hypoglycemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Astrocytic nuclear factor erythroid‐derived 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a potential therapeutic target of ischaemic preconditioning (IPC). Icariside II (ICS II) is a naturally occurring flavonoid derived from Herba Epimedii with Nrf2 induction potency. This study was designed to clarify if exposure to ICS II mimicks IPC neuroprotection and if Nrf2 from astrocytes contributes to ICS II preconditioning against ischaemic stroke. Experimental Approach: Mice with transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)‐induced focal cerebral ischaemia and primary astrocytes challenged with oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) were used to explore the neuroprotective effect of ICS II preconditioning. Additionally, Nrf2‐deficient mice were pretreated with ICS II to determine whether ICS II exerts its neuroprotection by activating Nrf2. Key Results: ICS II pretreatment mitigated cerebral injury in the mouse model of ischaemic stroke along with improving long‐term recovery. Furthermore, proteomics screening identified Nrf2 as a crucial gene evoked by ICS II treatment and required for the anti‐oxidative effect and anti‐inflammatory effect of ICS II. Also, ICS II directly bound to Nrf2 and reinforced the transcriptional activity of Nrf2 after MCAO. Moreover, ICS II pretreatment exerted cytoprotective effects on astrocyte cultures following lethal OGD exposure, by promoting Nrf2 nuclear translocation and activating the OXPHOS/NF‐κB/ferroptosis axis, while neuroprotection was decreased in Nrf2‐deficient mice and Nrf2 siRNA blocked effects of ICS II. Conclusion and Implications: ICS II preconditioning provides robust neuroprotection against ischaemic stroke via the astrocytic Nrf2‐mediated OXPHOS/NF‐κB/ferroptosis axis. Thus, ICS II could be a promising Nrf2 activator to treat ischaemic stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the space station, filamentous fungi are one of the main potential hazards causing short circuits or corrosion failure of printed circuit boards (PCBs). A 90-day fungal corrosion test was carried out on the China Space Station (CSS), focusing on the interaction between A. brasiliensis and exposed copper circuits. The results showed that the mycelial morphology, ultrastructure, and organic acid accumulation of the test fungi exhibited significant changes in the space microgravity environment. Aspergillus brasiliensis tended to excrete higher levels of oxalic acid in space as a defense mechanism against copper toxicity, which could exacerbate localized corrosion of copper metal. • The fungal corrosion behavior of copper in space was studied for the first time. • A. brasiliensis in space tends to excrete higher levels of oxalic acid. • Significant increase in pitting depth by A. brasiliensis in space. • Acid corrosion and oxygen concentration cells may be the main corrosion mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is the first long-term investigation of fungal degradation in space. • A significant increase in oxalic acid accumulation was observed in Aspergillus brasiliensis in space. • The Aspergillus brasiliensis forms mature biofilms in space that significantly affect the degradation of polyurethane coatings. Polyurethane (PU) is a commonly used conformal coating for printed circuit boards (PCBs). Filamentous fungi present in the space station environment are capable of degrading PU coatings, thereby posing a threat to the safety of electronic components. Therefore, we conducted a 90-day interaction test between Aspergillus brasiliensis and PU-coated PCBs in the China Space Station (CSS) and a controlled environment on the ground. This research aimed to investigate the alterations in the physiological properties of A. brasiliensis on PCB surfaces and the deterioration behavior of PU coating systems in the space microgravity environment. The results show that many fungal parameters, such as growth, morphology, cell ultrastructure, and low molecular weight organic acids (LMWOA) accumulation showed strong changes after spaceflight compared to ground controls. Distinct corrosion morphological features were found in the internal coatings by FIB/SEM analysis, suggesting the existence of a particular deterioration mechanism in the microgravity environment, which requires further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Low-shear modeled microgravity (LSMMG) technology was first employed into microbiologically influenced corrosion research. • LSMMG environment promoted the increase of extracellular polymeric substances and occurrence of cell aggregation of Bacillus cereus through nutrient limitation. • LSMMG environment accelerated the degradation of passive films of aluminium alloy through the increased extracellular polymeric substances of B. cereus. Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) in water recovery systems with severe microbial contamination in manned spacecraft required attention. The effect of low-shear modeled microgravity (LSMMG) environment on MIC of 5A06 aluminium alloy induced by Bacillus cereus was investigated in this work. Compared with the NG group, the increase of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and the occurrence of cell aggregation were the most significant effects of the LSMMG environment through nutrient limitation on B. cereus. And the degradation of passive films of aluminium alloy by B. cereus cells and the increased EPS induced by LSMMG environment was proved through FIB-SEM/TEM and AFM analysis, with thinning passive films and local heterogeneity in charge distribution. The results of this work demonstrate that the LSMMG environment accelerated the degradation of passive films of aluminium alloy through the increased EPS, it meant that microgravity in space would increase the MIC risk of pipeline metals of the water recovery system in manned spacecraft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbiologically influenced corrosion in water recovery system of manned spacecrafts deserves attention. The effect of Bacillus cereus on the corrosion of 5A06 aluminium alloy in simulated condensate solutions of space station was investigated. The organic acids induced significant dissolution of aluminium alloy, electrochemical measurements results showed living cells could weakened the cathode reaction, and focused ion beam-scanning/transmission electron microscopy indicated that B. cereus cell promoted the thinning of passive films. B. cereus affected the corrosion of 5A06 AA through metabolic activities and extracellular polymeric substances, ultimately promoting the degradation of passive films of aluminium alloy. • Bacillus cereus affected the corrosion of 5A06 aluminium alloy through metabolic activities and EPS. • FIB-SEM/TEM is used to analyze the bioinorganic interface between bacteria cell and aluminium alloy. • B. cereus cells promote the degradation of passive films of 5A06 aluminium alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth regulating factors (GRFs) are a conserved class of transcription factor in seed plants. GRFs are involved in various aspects of tissue differentiation and organ development. The implication of GRFs in biotic stress response has also been recently reported, suggesting a role of these transcription factors in coordinating the interaction between developmental processes and defense dynamics. However, the molecular mechanisms by which GRFs mediate the overlaps between defense signaling and developmental pathways are elusive. Here, we report large scale identification of putative target candidates of Arabidopsis GRF1 and GRF3 by comparing mRNA profiles of the grf1/grf2/grf3 triple mutant and those of the transgenic plants overexpressing miR396-resistant version of GRF1 or GRF3. We identified 1,098 and 600 genes as putative targets of GRF1 and GRF3, respectively. Functional classification of the potential target candidates revealed that GRF1 and GRF3 contribute to the regulation of various biological processes associated with defense response and disease resistance. GRF1 and GRF3 participate specifically in the regulation of defense-related transcription factors, cell-wall modifications, cytokinin biosynthesis and signaling, and secondary metabolites accumulation. GRF1 and GRF3 seem to fine-tune the crosstalk between miRNA signaling networks by regulating the expression of several miRNA target genes. In addition, our data suggest that GRF1 and GRF3 may function as negative regulators of gene expression through their association with other transcription factors. Collectively, our data provide new insights into how GRF1 and GRF3 might coordinate the interactions between defense signaling and plant growth and developmental pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PGAM1 is dominantly expressed in post-pubescent sheep testis and epididymis. • PGAM1 is mainly located in Sertoli cells. • PGAM1 promotes the glycolytic metabolic pathway of Tibetan sheep SCs and increases the secretion of lactic acid. This study was to explore the regulation effect of PGAM1 on the proliferation, apoptosis and glycolysis pathway of Tibetan sheep Sertoli cells. In this paper, the reproductive organs of male Tibetan sheep before pre-puberty (3 months old), sexual maturity (1 year old) and adult (3 years old) were used as experimental materials. The complete CDS region sequence of PGAM1 gene was cloned for bioinformatics analysis, and had the closest relationship with Tibetan antelope. QRT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemical staining were used to detect the expression and localization of PGAM1 in the testis and epididymis tissues of Tibetan sheep at different growth and development stages at the transcription and translation levels. Then the Tibetan sheep primary Sertoli cells (SCs) were isolated to construct PGAM1 gene overexpression and interference vectors, and to transfect primary SCs so as to promote and inhibit PGAM1 gene expression; CCK-8 and flow cytometry were used to detect the proliferation effect of SCs;qRT-PCR technology was employed to detect the changes in the expression of genes related to cell proliferation and apoptosis. Different kits were used to detect pyruvate, lactic acid, ATP production and LDH activity during glycolysis, and to detect the changes in the expression of downstream genes in the glycolysis pathway. The results showed that the CDS region of Tibetan sheep PGAM1 gene was 765 bp in length, which can encode 254 amino acids; and the expression of PGAM1 protein in the testis and epididymis increased at 1Y group and 3Ygroup compared with 3 M group, and that the PGAM1 protein mainly existed in SCs and Leydig cells at different developmental stages. CCK-8 and flow cytometry test results found that compared with the empty vector group (pcDNA3.1(+)), the proliferation rate of the PGAM1 gene overexpression group (pcDNA3.1(+)-PGAM1) decreased. The mRNA expression of the cell proliferation related genes PCNA and Bcl2 was significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and the expression of apoptosis-related genes Bax and caspase3 was significantly increased (P < 0.05). The expression of downstream genes in the glycolysis pathway was significant increased (P < 0.05), pyruvate content, ATP content, lactic acid production and LDH activity increased significantly (P < 0.05). Compared with the interference control group (NC), the proliferation rate of the PGAM1 gene interference group (si-PGAM1) was weakened. The mRNA expression of the cell proliferation-related genes PCNA and Bcl2 was significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the expression of cell apoptosis related genes Bax and caspase3 was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The expression of downstream genes in the glycolysis pathway was significantly reduced (P < 0.05), and the pyruvate content, ATP content, lactic acid production and LDH activity were significantly decreased (P < 0.05). The PGAM1 gene might regulate the glycolytic metabolism pathway and regulate the sperm formation and maturation process by affecting the proliferation and apoptosis of SCs. This result provides basic data for the study of the function of PGAM1 in sheep testicular development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repolarizing the tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) towards the antitumoral M1-like phenotype has been a promising approach for cancer immunotherapy. However, the anti-cancer immune response is severely limited mainly by the repolarized M1-like macrophages belatedly returning to the M2-like phenotype (i.e., negative feedback). Inspired by nitric oxide (NO) effectively preventing repolarization of inflammatory macrophages in inflammatory diseases, herein, we develop an arginine assembly, as NO nano-donor for NO generation to prevent the negative feedback of the macrophage repolarization. The strategy is to first apply reversible tagging of hydrophobic terephthalaldehyde to create an arginine nano-assembly, and then load a toll-like receptor 7/8 agonist resiquimod (R848) (R848@Arg). Through this strategy, a high loading efficiency of 40 % for the arginine and repolarization characteristics for TAMs can be achieved. Upon the macrophage repolarization by R848, NO can be intracellularly generated from the released arginine by the upregulated inducible nitric oxide synthase. Mechanistically, NO effectively prevented the negative feedback of the repolarized macrophage by mitochondrial dysfunction via blocking oxidative phosphorylation. Notably, R848@Arg significantly increased the tumor inhibition ratio by 3.13-fold as compared to the free R848 by maintaining the M1-like phenotype infiltrating into tumor. The Arg-assembly as NO nano-donor provides a promising method for effective repolarization of macrophages. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, slippery liquid-infused porous surfaces (SLIPSs) have emerged as a potential alternative to superhydrophobic surfaces (SHSs) due to their exceptional anti-icing properties. However, the current challenge lies in the significant lubricant consumption of SLIPSs, which poses a major obstacle to coating durability. In this study, we developed a durable anti-icing coating with stability (DASS), which combines SHSs and SLIPSs. By incorporating high adsorption particles and low cross-linking density rubber into the oil storage layer, the coating achieves an increased oil storage capacity while effectively inhibiting lubricant loss. Additionally, a superhydrophobic layer is introduced on the surface to ensure surface lubrication and prevent lubricant depletion. The three-layer structure enables the coating to maintain a low τ ice (<20kPa) during 30 icing/deicing cycles, showcasing superior de-icing durability compared to conventional anti-icing coatings. Interestingly, the original anti-icing properties of the coating can be restored through external oil replenishment. Furthermore, this coating exhibits excellent resistance against fouling, mechanical stress, chemical exposure, temperature variations, and weathering effects, making it highly suitable for practical applications in anti-icing coatings. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]